Best Espresso Machine Reviews
Espresso's unique flavor is created by high temperatures and pressure. If you want to make the most out of it, the top espresso machine is crucial.
This Breville model has the same ThermoJet thermocoil that's found in professional commercial machines. It heats up in three seconds, meaning you can start brewing espresso right away.
1. Nespresso Vertuo Plus
This reviewer has received promotional incentives or sweepstakes entries.
The Nespresso Vertuo Plus makes a perfect choice if you're looking to make a quick cup but do not care about the lack of milk steaming. The compact and simple machine has a minimalist design and can easily fit on your counter (the water tank that goes with it can be adjusted for size, so you don't have to leave the machine unattended).
It utilizes a method of extraction referred to as "Centrifusion" to extract the flavor without overheating. This process also produces the thickest crema.
The machine is simple to operate, using just one button. The machine detects the particular blend of each capsule through the barcode of each capsule, and then adjusts all its brewing parameters according to. It's a great option for those who want to start their day with a beautiful cup of coffee and have plenty of time. But, you're bound to making use of Nespresso pods--which aren't cheap--and it isn't the best quality model.
2. Rancilio Silvia
The Rancilio Silvia espresso machine is an excellent entry-level model suitable for newcomers. It is constructed of commercial-grade components and has a massive second-hand market, which indicates its longevity. The Silvia is not the best machine for professionals. For those who want to make coffee of cafe-quality then a larger boiler is the best option. However, the Silvia is a great starting point.
The portafilter on this machine is the same one used in cafes. This makes it much easier to follow commercial machine recipes. The grouphead is commercial grade, measuring 58mm and is thermally stable. The steam wand too is a commercial-grade model that is easy to use.
It has some limitations such as a simple rocker switch that turns the boiler off and on, and only one boiler. It's not the best choice for those who are seeking programmable features like pre-infusion, or custom timed shots. It still performs well for its price. And it comes with a premium wooden tamper in black, which is a great addition.
3. Philips 3200 Series
This fully automated espresso machine by Philips is a great choice for those who want to prepare cafe-quality drinks from home. It comes with a variety of impressive features and is simple to use. It's also quite affordable.
It offers a wide range of drinks that can be made with just a touch. They include classics such as espresso, Americano, latte macchiato and cappuccino. In addition, the machine can dispense hot water. The Philips 3200 Series also is fairly easy to clean.
While some may be apprehensive about the fact that the machine is made of plastic, it's not a deal-breaker. Most customers are satisfied with the quality of the plastic is excellent and durable.
The Philips 3200 Series espresso machine is a great method of making your favorite milk-based coffee drinks. It's ideal for people who wish to save money by avoiding coffee shop trips. It's also easy to use and requires no maintenance. However, if you're looking for the best espresso there are better alternatives available. You can also purchase a version which does not have the LatteGo system for a lesser cost.
4. Gaggia Classic Pro
Gaggia Classic Pro is an entry level espresso maker built to last. It builds upon the decades old reputation of the Classic model. It comes with the Classic model, but with few improvements like frames that let you know the amount of water left, rocker switches, and temperature ready lights. In terms of brewing the Classic Pro is a step up from other models. Classic Pro utilizes the same commercial-style brew group and portafilter that Gaggia makes use of in their professional coffee makers, and it also comes with a 3-way solenoid valve which purges any remaining steam or water after the brewing. It also has a commercial-style steam wand which espresso makers is a major improvement over panarello wands that are found on many lesser machines that do little more than inject air to increase the production of foam from undersized boilers.
While it may not look as sleek or contemporary as some of the competitors, the Classic Pro's stainless steel body is a refreshing addition of durability over a lot of its plastic counterparts. It's also free of any unnecessary features like PID temperature control or any fancy volumetric jiggery-pokery that could make obtaining the perfect shot a difficult task for new baristas.
5. ECM Casa V
ECM is a sister business of Profitec (another well-known high-end espresso machine), is not known for making entry level machines. However they do manufacture one that is called the Casa V. It's a single boiler machine, which is a lot less costly than the Rancilio Silvia and Gaggia Classic Pro. However, it appears and works like one that is expensive. The stainless steel mirror-finished housing and the articulating steam wand are both striking.
The heating element with 1200 watts can heat up the 0.4 Liter Eco Brass boiler quickly. It reaches brew temperature within 5-7 minutes and is ready for steam in just an hour. Brew gauges are a great addition as it allows you to monitor and adjust pressure.
ECM has packed reliable espresso machine technology into a compact unit that is easily fit into any kitchen, and the Casa V will look beautiful in any design with a focus on coffee. It's constructed exactly in the same way as traditional commercial espresso machines and it has parts that are easily accessible. Any mechanically inclined home owner can fix or maintain it.